TAPLEJUNG, July 11: A massive landslide has blocked the Tamor River at Sawadin VDC of Taplejung district on Sunday morning. This has formed a big temporary lake and the river's water is threatening human settlements both upstream and downstream.
Residents of Mitlung Bazaar in Purambu VDC-9, located upstream from the landslide dam, have already fled their homes. "After the landslides blocked the river, I and my family fled home immediately," said Chandra Tamang, a local teacher of Mitlung.
Landslide blocks Marsyangdi River, poses risk to settlements
Inspector Shailendra Kumar Yadav of the District Police Office (DPO), Taplejung, meanwhile informed that the water from the lake formed by the blockage of the river has started overflowing the barrier. However, settlements are still at high risk as mudslides are hitting the area frequently.
"We have asked the locals of Hardung and Dobhan to be cautious. Rescue teams consisting Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, and Nepal Police personnel have been deployed in the risky areas to rescue and relocate the locals," Yadav added.
Along with Mitlung, many settlements near the riverbanks are also at high risk. The possible breaching of the landslide dam could impact two market centers Hardung, Dobhan and Simwa Bazaar.
"We have to remain on high alert. But we will have to live in fear throughout the monsoon season," said Deepak Dhital, an entrepreneur at Dovan Bazzar.
Photo caption: A section of the Tamor River has turned into a huge lake after being blocked by the landslide.
Courtesy: Jeevan Saud (taken from his Facebook)
